Living with Alzheimer's: A Sister’s Tale
Sisters Ethel P. and Matty B. have been the closest of friends for over eighty years. So no one was surprised when, four years ago, they decided to move together from New York City into an independent living community in Westchester County, New York. They quickly made friends with two other new arrivals, and the foursome began enjoying dinner together virtually every night. Recently, however, Matty has been finding it hard to muster the energy to dress herself, put on makeup, and walk to the dining hall.
“I try to give her a pep talk sometimes,” Ethel says, “but she’s my older sister so she doesn’t really listen to me, and the last thing I want to be is a nag.”
Matty’s apathy is just one symptom of mild or A1 stage Alzheimer’s disease. Her other symptoms, including limited concentration and impaired planning, are also typical in someone living with Alzheimer’s.
This article continues at Living With Alzheimer's and Care for Alzheimer's Disease.